American Daredevils Premieres Tonight on History

History presents “American Daredevils,” a new series that allows viewers to ride shotgun with a dying breed of uniquely American heroes. The 16-episode half-hour series premieres tonight at 10PM ET/PT with back-to-back episodes.

From the dirt tracks of America’s heartland to the bright lights of the country’s biggest speedways, “American Daredevils” brings to life the stories of the men who proudly carry the torch lit by Evel Knievel. These daredevils travel the country performing live death-defying acts without the luxuries of rehearsals or second chances. They launch themselves through the air in cars and motorcycles, light themselves on fire, jump off tall buildings and risk their lives in countless crash and burn stunts all for the freedom of making a living while doing what they love. These are the last of the daredevil breed and as their lives unfold, it becomes clear that “the stunt” is only part of their story.

Based in Arizona, Spanky Spangler has been a daredevil his entire working life. It’s all he knows. After surviving 22,000 stunts and setting a number of world records, he has earned the title of the greatest living daredevil. However, he’s now staring down the twilight of his career as his son Bryan (Spanky Jr.) is gearing up to take over the family business. Meanwhile, Texas daredevil Dr. Danger’s quest is a simple one – to gain legitimacy as a professional daredevil and acceptance by his peers. Dismissed for his duct tape and paperclip approach to stunts, Danger has a new plan that he believes will win him the fame and fortune that has eluded him for two decades. Not to be outdone, Washington’s own Mr. Dizzy is setting out to build on his world record-setting reputation by expanding his daredevil business into an empire.

Spanky, Bryan, Danger and Dizzy are just some of the daredevils featured in each episode. Shot on location in ten states, resulting in the destruction of countless cars and pieces of camera equipment, “American Daredevils” is an explosive account of what it takes to live, thrive and survive on the professional daredevil circuit.